A guide to living in Bath, Somerset

What's It Like to Live in Bath, Somerset, UK?

Bath continues to be one of the UK's most desirable cities, offering a harmonious blend of rural charm and urban convenience. Nestled on the edge of the picturesque Cotswolds and just a 90-minute train ride from London, Bath remains a haven for those seeking relaxation and cultural enrichment. The city boasts a vibrant culinary scene, year-round festivals, stunning architecture, and easy access to the Somerset countryside, making it an ideal relocation spot in the UK.​

Renowned for its Roman Baths, Bath has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988. In 2018, it was voted the best UK city to raise a family by MoneySuperMarket’s ‘Family Living Index’. The city consistently ranks as one of the safest places to live in the UK, with a dynamic and welcoming atmosphere fostered by its diverse population of young families and students.​

Living in Bath - Lifestyle

Bath offers an exceptional quality of life, combining breathtaking views with the practical benefits of city living. The city is a cultural delight, featuring an eclectic mix of theatres, art galleries, and museums. Spend your weekends exploring over 40 museums, including the Museum of Bath Architecture and The Herschel Museum of Astronomy. Art enthusiasts can admire collections at the Museum of East Asian Art, the Victoria Art Gallery, and the recently reopened Bath Fashion Museum, now located in the Old Post Office building.​

The Roman Baths remain a major attraction, having been modernized to engage younger visitors with costumed characters and interactive audio guides. After soaking up the rich history, enjoy a leisurely stroll down the iconic Royal Crescent for an ice cream and a chat while the little ones' imaginations run wild.​

For outdoor enthusiasts, canal boat tours offer a unique perspective of Bath's architecture, while the Bath Skyline walk provides unbeatable city views. Sports fans can participate in the Bath Half Marathon each March or cheer on the Bath Rugby team at the Recreation Ground. For a more relaxed experience, grab a coffee and unwind in Royal Victoria Park as the kids explore the fantastic natural play area.​

The park hosts numerous events throughout the year, including children's literature and food festivals, as well as the Jane Austen Festival—a 10-day annual celebration of the author's time in the city. The Bath Festival continues to be a highlight, offering a week-long celebration of music and literature, with performances ranging from comedy to puppeteering and even paint gun art.​

Bath's shopping scene is equally impressive, featuring a variety of independent and artisan shops. Green Park Station Markets, housed in a former railway station, offers stalls ranging from organic grocers to vintage clothing. The Guildhall Market and the Bath Artisan Market showcase wares from local makers and artists. For those who prefer high-street shopping, SouthGate Shopping Centre provides a comprehensive retail experience.​

Beyond the city, Bath is a stone's throw from some of the UK's most popular attractions. Enjoy a safari drive through Longleat, explore the underground wonders of Wookey Hole Caves, or spend a day at Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park. For history buffs, a visit to Stonehenge followed by a walk along one of the many National Trust trails in the rolling hills of Somerset is a must.

Schooling - Outstanding State and Private Schools in Bath, Somerset

Bath offers a diverse range of schooling options to suit every family. The city boasts 15 Ofsted 'Outstanding' primary schools, with Weston All Saints CofE Primary leading the pack—95% of its students achieve expected or higher grades in reading, writing, and maths. There are also 26 secondary schools to choose from, including the Ofsted 'Outstanding' Saint Gregory’s Catholic College.​

The independent sector is well-represented, with institutions like King Edward's School, Royal High School GDST, and Monkton Senior School enjoying excellent reputations. For those considering higher education, the University of Bath consistently ranks among the UK's top 10 universities. The city is also home to the world-renowned Norland College, which trains elite nannies for high-profile families. Notably, Maria Borrallo, nanny to Prince George and the other Cambridge children, is an alumna.

Transport

Bath is well-serviced by various transport options. Bristol Airport, offering flights to over 100 destinations worldwide, is just a 40-minute drive away. Bath Spa train station provides direct services to London Paddington in approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes, with the first train departing around 5 am. The station also offers easy access to Cardiff, Bristol, and local stops like Frome and Chippenham.​

The city operates a 'Clean Air Zone' and offers unlimited travel bus passes, as well as e-scooter rentals available at various charging spots throughout the city. Surrounding villages such as Limpley Stoke, Freshford, Bradford-on-Avon, Wellow, and Hinton Charterhouse are popular residential choices, offering regular bus links—ideal for families with teenagers.

Property

Bath’s timeless architecture—particularly its golden-hued Georgian terraces and crescents—continues to be a strong draw for international families and senior professionals relocating to the UK. From elegant townhouses in Lansdown to spacious detached homes in Widcombe and Bathwick, the city offers an excellent mix of period charm and modern comfort. As you’ll see, Bath truly is a beautiful place to live—but that beauty does come at a cost. Family homes typically start from around £1.8 million and can go up to £3.5 million, particularly in premium areas with large gardens, heritage architecture, and school proximity.

Family-sized rental properties are limited and in high demand, particularly near top schools. Expect rental prices to start at £6,500/month and upwards for a well-located, fully equipped home.

If you're considering relocating to the South West, this guide to living in Bath Somerset should give you a clear picture of why so many families, professionals, and retirees are drawn to the city. From its outstanding schools and rich cultural heritage to its breathtaking Georgian architecture and proximity to the countryside, Bath truly offers a lifestyle that blends elegance with practicality.

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